The Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO) has recently undertaken promotional activities in India, intending to tap into the burgeoning South Asian tourism market. In the previous year, Macau witnessed a remarkable 30% growth in Indian visitors, welcoming over 100,000 tourists. The momentum has continued into the first four months of this year, with the numbers surpassing 40,000—an impressive 67.8% increase compared to the same period in 2009.
To showcase the diverse offerings of the Macau tourism industry, representatives from sectors such as aviation, travel agencies, hotels, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions), and entertainment collaborated with MGTO in promotional events held in two vital outbound cities in India—Mumbai and New Delhi on May 18 and May 20, respectively.
Simultaneously, the Macau International Airport Company (CAM) is extending special rebates to the airline that pioneers connectivity between India and Macau, a strategic move aimed at enticing Indian carriers to initiate operations in Macau,
Despite robust recovery in other major Asian markets, Macau has recognized a slower rebound in demand from India. In response, MGTO is actively seeking to reconnect with Indian trade partners, a relationship that has been dormant for three years. Recent participation in the PATA Travel Mart 2023 in New Delhi and upcoming plans to host Indian buyers at a tradeshow in July 2024, along with an invitation to Indian travel agents for a familiarization trip later this year, exemplify MGTO’s commitment to rekindling interest from the Indian market.
MGTO aims to educate Indian partners about the latest developments in Macau, anticipating substantial growth in Indian demand for Macao’s offerings by the following year. Their marketing strategy in India is strategically focused on luxury, incentive travel, and weddings, with Macau frequently chosen as the venue for prestigious events and awards ceremonies by Indian companies.
Director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes affirmed Macao’s positive recovery in 2023, with about 70% of its market rebounding during the first half of the year. At the PATA Travel Mart, MGTO showcased Macao’s key attractions, including the Historic Centre of Macao and its status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. They also highlighted the convenience of the new cross-boundary bus service connecting Hong Kong International Airport and Macao for international travelers.
The MGTO’s proactive approach extends to the Malaysian market, with roadshows and promotional activities aimed at capturing the attention of Malaysian visitors. Macao’s accessibility and diverse “tourism +” offerings are being promoted to spark interest among Malaysian residents, with Malaysia ranking as the ninth-largest visitor market for Macao. MGTO continues its efforts to expand the Southeast Asian visitor market, collaborating with airlines to offer special discounts on direct flight tickets between Macao and India, signaling their commitment to attracting more international visitors.
In conclusion, Macau Tourism is actively pursuing the Indian and Malaysian markets, employing strategic initiatives to rekindle interest and expand its presence in these regions. Their dedication to excellence in the tourism industry and efforts to enhance accessibility underscore their commitment to boosting visitor numbers.
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